It has now been one year since 28-year-old James Barnes went missing in the Chetwynd area. On October 18, 2024, Barnes left for a hunting trip but never returned home. His truck, a 2004 Chevrolet pickup, was found later that day along the Groundbirch Road, but there was no sign of Barnes or his dog, Murphy, a golden retriever. RCMP have since conducted searches in the area, but no leads have emerged to explain what happened. A dog found in the nearby Halfway River area was initially thought to be Murphy, but DNA testing confirmed it was not. Barnes, who is described as 5’11” with brown hair, was last seen wearing a green or blue TC Energy ball cap, a hoodie, and jeans. RCMP are still asking the public for any information about his whereabouts, or anyone who may have seen his truck or Murphy on that day. The investigation remains active, and authorities continue to hope for new leads. Anyone with information is urged to contact Chetwynd RCMP at 250-788-9221.
